New flavour for Sumfest 2016

With a new man at the helm in the innovative DownSound Record (DSR), CEO Joe Bogdanovich, Reggae Sumfest 2016, which is celebrating 25 years as Jamaica's premier music festival, is poise to unfold on July 17 with a brand-new flavour.

Among the changes patrons will see is a complete local line-up, which is part of an effort by Bogdanovich, an American investor who is based in Jamaica, to rebrand the music with a view of returning it to its roots.

"In order to make this industry thrive again, it's critical that the home of reggae music gets its house in order," stated Bogdanovich, in defending his restructuring actions.

Among the other changes patrons will see is a reduction from three to two main nights at the Catherine Hall Enter-tainment Centre. Dancehall Night will move from Thursday to Friday night; while Reggae Night will replace International Night on Saturday.

"We believe this structure will work as both major nights will be on the weekend, so most persons won't have to worry about going to work the next day," said Bogdanovich. "I am looking to see persons from all over the island coming down to Montego Bay to support these two major nights."

While Friday and Saturday nights will naturally hold pride of place, Reggae Sumfest 2016 will also feature a number of other activities. The full roster is as follows: